It’s a Shame About Ray

Rock · 1992 · 11 tracks · 33m

It’s a Shame About Ray

June 2, 1992 · Fire Records

'It's a Shame About Ray' is the sound of a perfect summer day tinged with a beautiful, wistful melancholy. Evan Dando's effortless croon glides over a foundation of jangling guitars, propulsive basslines, and crisp drums, crafting a collection of short, sharp, and irresistibly catchy indie rock anthems.

It's an album that feels both immediate and timeless, capturing the slacker charm and emotional honesty that defined a generation. This is essential listening for anyone who appreciates pop hooks delivered with an authentic, slightly world-weary indie sensibility.

Tracklist · 11 Tracks · 33m

01

Rockin Stroll

1:47

02

Confetti

2:45

03

It’s a Shame About Ray

3:07

04

Rudderless

3:20

06

The Turnpike Down

2:34

07

Bit Part

1:51

08

Alison’s Starting to Happen

1:59

09

Hannah & Gabi

2:40

10

Kitchen

2:55

11

Ceiling Fan in My Spoon

1:48

12

Frank Mills

1:44

Moments Worth Listening For

The instantly recognizable, bright acoustic guitar riff and Evan Dando's laid-back yet earnest vocal entry on the title track, 'It's a Shame About Ray,' perfectly setting the album's tone.

The unexpected, slightly ragged, but utterly charming cover of Simon & Garfunkel's 'Mrs. Robinson,' which became a surprise hit and showcased the band's ability to reinterpret classics with their signature slacker cool.

The driving, propulsive rhythm section and fuzzy, melodic guitar solo in 'Confetti,' providing a burst of more traditional alternative rock energy amidst the album's generally breezier sound.

The tender, acoustic-driven introspection of 'My Drug Buddy,' where Dando's vocals are particularly vulnerable, highlighting the album's emotional depth beneath the catchy surface.

Reviews

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Where This Album Departs

How does It’s a Shame About Ray sound next to the rest of The Lemonheads's catalogue?

This album stays in step with the catalogue across the board — no axis departs enough to be worth its own note. Hover the dots to see where each one sits.

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